Illustrating with Textiles

Studio Masterclass >Illustrating with Textiles with Barbara Wheeler

Sunday 4 November > 10:00am – 4:00pm

ANCA Gallery & Studios, Dickson

Some sewing skills are required for this masterclass, which is all about hand stitching and illustrating textiles using naturally dyed fabrics and threads. You will be working from individual designs or photographs and artist Barbara Wheeler will show you how to design, piece and stitch a small illustration. You will select your materials from a supply of eco dyed fabric, thread and op shop finds. You will be shown how to apply your design to a foundation and then stitch it, using simple sashiko techniques. Practical applications for textile illustrations include framed works, gift cards and wrapping, bags and pouches or purses, quilts, garment embellishment, visible mending and upcycling.

This masterclass arises from Barbara Wheeler’s practice of designing and making clothing from natural fabrics, botanical prints and dyes. She works with nature to create garments and wearable art that raises awareness of the impacts of our clothing choices. Every item she makes is a story about place and each one retains the fragrance of the leaves that gave colour to the cloth. Her arts practice sits at the intersection of traditional craft, fashion, contemporary design and social change – in the community of slow fashion. Global fast fashion is having an astounding impact on the environment and so do commercially manufactured craft fabrics. Wheeler is a sustainability advocate and invites you, as a consumer, to harness the power you have to make a world of difference. You will learn in this class why we need to change the way we consume textiles and how you can incorporate more sustainable options for your art and craft projects.

Amenities >

Barbara Wheeler’s studio is located at Australian National Capital Artists’ (ANCA) Gallery & Studios in Dickson, which has off-street parking. There will be tea and coffee available, but please bring your own lunch.